Sri Vijaya Puram, July 21: The Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services (AH&VS) has confirmed an outbreak of Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) in dogs in Sri Vijaya Puram, prompting authorities to issue a public advisory urging pet owners to take immediate preventive measures to contain the spread of the disease.
According to the Department, Canine Distemper is a life-threatening viral disease that primarily affects unvaccinated or improperly vaccinated dogs. The disease is not transmissible to humans and is primarily confined to the canine population.
The Department has advised pet owners to remain vigilant for early signs of infection, which include high fever, dry nose, congested eyes, ocular and nasal discharge, coughing, loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhoea. It stated that in advanced stages the disease may lead to neurological complications, including convulsions, jaw chomping, excessive salivation, jerky muscle movements (chorea) and hardening of the footpads.
Pet owners have been instructed to immediately isolate any dog showing symptoms of illness to reduce the risk of transmission to other dogs. The Department has also advised owners to seek veterinary consultation at the earliest, stating that timely supportive treatment significantly improves the chances of recovery.
The advisory further stressed the importance of vaccination as the primary preventive measure against the disease. Puppies should receive their first vaccination between six and eight weeks of age, followed by booster doses every three to four weeks until they reach 16 to 20 weeks of age. Annual booster vaccinations have also been recommended.
The Department has cautioned pet owners against ignoring early symptoms such as fever, nasal discharge or loss of appetite, warning that delays in obtaining veterinary care could prove fatal. It has also advised against allowing unvaccinated dogs to mix with other dogs or visit public parks and beaches.
The advisory further stated that pet owners should avoid administering over-the-counter medicines without veterinary advice, as such treatment may aggravate the condition. Owners have also been urged to maintain proper hygiene by cleaning food and water bowls daily and regularly disinfecting living areas using mild disinfectants or a 1:20 dilution of household bleach.
For dogs that fall ill, the Department has recommended providing a soft, semi-solid or liquid diet, along with curd and probiotics to support gut health and hydration. It has also advised owners to keep their pets away from stray dogs and crowded public places until they are fully vaccinated and healthy, and not allow dogs to roam freely during the outbreak period.
The Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services has appealed for the cooperation of pet owners in preventing the spread of Canine Distemper and advised them to contact the nearest veterinary institution or the Department for assistance and guidance.
